Malacca City, also known as Melaka, is the capital of the coastal state of Malacca in southwestern Malaysia. It holds a significant historical and cultural heritage, being Malaysia’s oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. Visitors are drawn to Jonker Street, famous for its antique shops and vibrant night market, as well as the city’s architecture, which reflects its Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial history. In Malacca, you'll encounter historical sites, cultural spots, and a diverse culinary scene, featuring everything from Nonya to Portuguese and Malay cuisine. If you're planning a trip from Singapore to Malacca, there are four convenient ways to travel to this charming city.
4 ways to Malacca from Singapore
Self driving from Singapore to Malacca
For those who have their own vehicle, driving is one of the most flexible ways to reach Malacca. You have full control over your schedule, can make stops along the way, and won’t need to leave your vehicle during customs and immigration clearance at the checkpoints.
The Route:
- The fastest route from Singapore to Malacca is via the North-South Expressway (NSE), covering a distance of approximately 240–250 km. The drive typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Border Crossing: Both the Tuas and Woodlands checkpoints can experience delays, especially during peak hours (7:00 am – 9:00 am or 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm). Plan your trip to avoid peak traffic and save yourself the hassle.
What You’ll Need:
- Touch ‘n Go Card: This card is essential for paying tolls along the highway and can also be used for parking.
- Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP): You’ll need this when entering Malaysia.
- Singapore Rules: Make sure your vehicle’s fuel tank is at least three-quarters full before crossing the border into Malaysia to avoid fines of up to SGD 500.
Travel Tips:
- Be aware of the speed limits (110km/h on highways) and speed cameras (known as AES) along the way. Speed traps are common, so drive safely.
- Navigation: Use apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates, especially near Malacca, where traffic can be congested.
Taking a bus /coach from Singapore to Malacca
For those traveling on a budget, taking a bus or coach is the most affordable way to reach Malacca.
Travel Time:
- The bus ride from Singapore to Malacca typically takes between 4 to 5 hours, depending on the traffic and how long customs and immigration take at both the Singapore and Malaysia checkpoints.
Bus Operators:
- There are numerous bus services departing from Golden Mile Complex, Kitchener Complex, Chinatown, and Bugis in Singapore. Notable bus operators include Konsortium Express, 707 Inc, and Luxury Coach.
Booking Your Bus:
- You can now book bus tickets online through platforms like Easybook or RedBus. Prices typically range from SGD 20 – SGD 40 per person.
Important Notes:
- During customs and immigration clearance at both the Singapore and Malaysia borders, you will have to disembark from the bus, bring all your luggage for inspection, and re-board after everyone is cleared. This can sometimes take up to 1–2 hours.
Private MPV or Limousine Car from Singapore to Malacca
If comfort and convenience are your priorities, booking a private MPV or limousine service is the best way to travel to Malacca.
Service Providers:
- SGMYTravel and other providers offer door-to-door private car services with a fleet of vehicles such as Toyota Alphard, Hyundai Starex, and Toyota Hiace vans.
- These private hire services will pick you up from any location in Singapore and drop you off directly at your destination in Malacca, making it the easiest and most convenient option.
Why Choose Private Hire:
- Time-Saving: You won't need to alight during immigration clearance (except for larger vans). This saves time, especially during busy periods at the checkpoints.
- Comfort: Private vehicles offer more legroom, air conditioning, and a smooth ride. You can also schedule your travel time to avoid peak hours.
- Cost: Prices range from SGD $250 – $400, covering all tolls, petrol, and other fees. The cost is often competitive for larger groups or families.
Booking:
- You can easily book these services through WhatsApp or directly on the service providers’ websites.
Train from Singapore to Malacca
While the train isn’t the most convenient option, some travelers may still prefer it for the scenic experience. However, there are no direct trains from Singapore to Malacca.
How It Works:
- First, travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru Sentral (JB Sentral). From there, take a KTM train to Pulau Sebang/Tampin Station, which is about 38 km from Malacca City.
- Upon arriving at Tampin, you’ll need to take a taxi or bus to Malacca. Taxis cost around RM 60 and take about 45 minutes, while buses are slower but more affordable.
Travel Time:
- The entire journey, including customs and immigration and the train ride, can take up to 9–10 hours. Train schedules can also be unreliable, with frequent delays.
Train Tickets:
- Tickets can be purchased on the KTM website, with prices starting at around RM 25 for adults.
Additional Transport Options
1. Private Shuttle Services:
There are more frequent private shuttle services available from Singapore to Malacca, using minivans or luxury vans. These shuttles offer flexible departure times and are slightly more affordable than private MPV services.
2. Ride-Sharing Services:
Grab and Ryde have expanded to offer cross-border trips from Singapore to Malacca. While convenient, they can be subject to pricing surges, especially during weekends and holidays.
Choose the Best Way for You
There are multiple ways to travel from Singapore to Malacca, each with its own pros and cons. Whether you prefer the flexibility of self-driving, the affordability of buses, the comfort of private cars, or the scenic train route, your journey to this historical city will undoubtedly be filled with exciting discoveries. Plan ahead to avoid traffic, choose the best option for your needs, and enjoy your trip to Malacca!
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